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Seasonal Flu Vaccine

Don’t spread the flu – Don’t get the flu. Get vaccinated with a season flu vaccine.

According to the CDC, the flu shot is between 70-90% effective in warding off influenza in healthy people under 65. The flu vaccine comes in two forms, a shot and a nasal spray. The nasal spray is called FluMist. The shot will not cause you to get the flu. It lets your body develop the antibodies needed to fight flu viruses. You may have a slight reaction to the shot, including soreness at the injection site, mild muscle ache or fever. FluMist is a weakened live virus vaccine. That means it is made from a live virus that has been designed not to cause the flu.

Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
Cough or sneeze into a tissue. If you don’t have one, use your sleeve, not your hand. Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand rub if you do not have soap and water. Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread that way. Stay home if you get sick. This helps keep others from getting sick.

Symptoms of Flu
People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

Fever* or feeling feverish/chills

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Muscle or body aches

Headaches

Fatigue (very tired)

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children than adults.

*Not everyone with flu will have a fever.

What should I do if I get sick?
Stay at home! Most people with the flu do not need to see a doctor. Contact your doctor if you are sick and if you are pregnant, have a chronic health condition like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease. Or if your child is under 5 years old or you are over 65 years old.

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination each year.

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